First of all, I would like to
support the assessments of main outcomes of the SCO’s activity for over the
past period enunciated by the heads of delegations. During 15 years since
establishment, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has rightfully secured a
commendable place in the ranks of high-profile and influential international
organizations. It became an efficient factor of sustainable development,
strengthening peace, countering the modern challenges and threats, ensuring the
security and stability on the regional and global levels.

For over the past years the enormous
work on its scale was accomplished to form the treaty and legal basis, the
solid institutional base was established to ensure comprehensive and equal
cooperation among the states which are members of the organization.

Along with this, we realize and
comprehend how rapidly is changing the surrounding world, the confrontation and
conflicts, uncertainty and unpredictability in the world markets grow, and what
does arise a special alarm – the international terrorism, extremism and
creeping expansion of radicalism are acquiring yet more dangerous scales.

To enormous regret, in the unfolding
international situation, instead of consolidating mutual trust and cooperation,
the confrontation and competition are growing. It is impossible not to see and
not to notice this trend.

First. In the given complex
conditions it is of an utmost importance to preserve and much strengthen our
commitment to the principles of openness and non-bloc nature of the SCO
stipulated in the Charter and other fundamental documents of the association.
It is necessary in henceforth to rule out, prevent the ideology-driven and
confrontational approaches to resolving the emerging regional and international
problems.

Second. The course we have taken to
large-scale expansion of the composition of the SCO member-states, symbolized
by the start of the process of joining of India and Pakistan, without any
doubt, means that the SCO secures a new horizon and enters a new, yet more
complex stage of its activity.

All of us unambiguously understand
that complexities and difficulties shall arise, in the first place, in
achieving consensus in adopting decisions on the main issues of agenda for our
organization, taking into consideration various and at times diametrically
opposite approaches of certain states to urgent issues of international and
regional development.

But possible difficulties and
problems, emerging along the road, must in no way mean denial of the principle
of consensus, which has been enshrined in the Charter and Rules of Procedure of
the SCO. The rigorous observance of this principle, which has justified itself
in practice, will allow to rule out the emergence of controversies and
discords, which may negatively affect the efficiency of our Organization’s
activity, and lead to its fragmentation and fragmentation, and forming the
«interest-based groups».

Third. I would like to briefly dwell
on the state of affairs in neighboring Afghanistan.

The military-political situation
unfolding here can be characterized as low-grade confrontation of confronting
parties and given further continuation of which there is a serious and real
danger of overflow of instability into the neighboring countries and regions.

The absolute majority of those, who
are interested in tackling the Afghan problem, realize that there is only one
way out, i.e. these are the peaceful political negotiations among major
confronting parties under auspices of the United Nations. It is important to
resume the negotiation process between the government and confronting forces,
such as «Taliban». Along with this, the parties must not associate the very
fact of start of the negotiation process with any preliminary conditions.

Without any doubt the donor
countries and international institutions must confirm their commitments in
terms of rendering assistance to Afghanistan aimed at true recovery of social
and economic state in the country and living standards of the population, and
what is most important, - into the sphere of education and enlightenment.

Uzbekistan, guided by the principle
of bilateral cooperation with Afghanistan, makes its own contribution to
construction of communications, including the construction of the only railway
line in the country which connects the external world with Afghanistan –
Termez-Mazari-Sharif, and ensures supplies of electric power, including to the
city of Kabul.

Dear participants of the meeting!

Further expansion and deepening of
economic cooperation stand as one of the key conditions of achieving the program
goals and tasks of the Organization. Our common task in this direction must
become the implementation of priority and well-grounded economic and
infrastructure projects in the region, which meet the interests of all states,
and firstly, development of cooperation in the sphere of transport
communications.

In this regard, Uzbekistan supports
the initiative put forward by the President of the PRC Xi Jinping in terms of
establishment of the «Economic belt of the Silk Road». I would like to
underscore that its successful realization is possible exclusively on the basis
of common and mutual interests of all involved countries.

Esteemed colleagues!

In conclusion, I would like to
express confidence that the substantial exchange of views and joint productive
work will promote further deepening of the good-neighborly, friendly and
partnership relations, as well as consolidation of the atmosphere of mutual
respect, development of constructive and trustworthy dialogue between our
countries.

The Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the
outcomes of the meeting of the Council of Heads of State held in Tashkent on
June 24, 2016, in connection with the 15th anniversary of establishment of the
SCO state the following.

A historic decision made on June 15,
2001 on the establishment of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization was an
important strategic choice of Member States in order to actively promote peace
and common development, deepen good-neighborly, friendly and partnership
relations and strengthen the climate of mutual respect and trust in the region.
During 15 years-long activity, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization secured a
commendable place in the rank of authoritative and influential international
and regional organizations, becoming an effective factor of maintaining
security, stability and sustainable development in the modern system of
international relations. The “Shanghai Spirit” while expressing the fundamental
principles and ideas of the Organization is a unique source of successful
activity of the SCO and serves as an important landmark in the development of
interstate relations, countering global challenges and threats, settlement of
international disputes.

Member States, being guided by the
SCO Charter and the Treaty of Long-term Good Neighborliness, Friendship and
Cooperation of the Member States, the SCO Development Strategy towards 2025 and
other fundamental documents of the Organization, continue a constructive and
trusting partnership, steadily adhering to the “Shanghai Spirit” based on
mutual trust, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations
and cultures, as well as aspiration for common development. The SCO adheres to
the line which excluding the block, ideological and confrontational approaches
to resolving urgent international and regional problems.

The institutional framework of the
SCO has been established and operating, its structural bodies are effectively
functioning, consistent and systemic work is carried out on the accomplishment
of goals and objectives envisaged by the SCO Charter in political, economic,
cultural and humanitarian spheres, as well as security.

Mechanisms for regular meetings at
various levels, as well as considerable legal framework have been established
which regulate practical cooperation between the SCO Member States in the fight
against new challenges and threats, primarily terrorism, separatism and
extremism, trafficking in drugs and weapons, other forms of organized and
transnational crime.

Productive cooperation has been
established to strengthen economic and humanitarian ties, long-term programs
and plans are adopted and being implemented for the development of interaction
in trade, investments, project activities, culture, science and technology,
emergency response to natural and man-made disasters, as well as in other
areas.

Strictly following the principles
enshrined in the SCO Charter, including the one that the SCO is not directed
against other states and international organizations, Member States are
actively developing contacts and cooperation with other countries,
international and regional organizations.

Cooperation has been established
with the observer states - Afghanistan, Belarus, India, Iran, Mongolia and
Pakistan, and the SCO dialogue partners - Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal,
Turkey and Sri Lanka. Partner relations are established and maintained with the
UN and its specialized institutions and cooperation is developing with other
international and regional structures as well.

The principle of openness of the SCO
is consistently implemented. In the wake of the Dushanbe summit a legal
framework was formed for the expansion of the Organization, which regulates the
procedure for the accession of new states. In accordance with the decisions of
the Ufa summit, the procedure is underway for admission of the Republic of
India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as full SCO members.

***

The rapidly changing situation in
the world is characterized by ever-increasing geopolitical tension, growing
scales of terrorism, separatism and extremism which negatively affect the
entire system of international relations.

In these conditions, the United
Nations remains the leading universal international organization for the
maintenance of global security, the main platform for addressing interstate and
international issues. Member States reaffirm their commitment to strengthening
the central coordinating role of the UN in international relations.

Member States intend to continue to
adhere to universally recognized objectives and principles of the UN Charter
and international law, primarily relating to the maintenance of international
peace and security, development of cooperation between states, independence,
equality, independent choice of social systems and paths of development, mutual
respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, inviolability of borders,
non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of
disputes, non-use of force or threat of force.

Member States reaffirm their
determination to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Treaty of Long-term
Good Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation for the further development of
good-neighborliness and friendly relations in areas of mutual interest,
including turning of the borders with each into the borders of eternal peace
and friendship.

Member States stand for further
strengthening the leading role of the UN Security Council in maintaining
international peace and security, continuing extensive consultations in search
of a “package solution” for its reform in order to improve transparency and
effectiveness of this body, guided by the interests of ensuring the unity of
the UN Member States, without setting artificial timelines and expediting the
options which do not enjoy broad support of the UN Member States.

Member States note that the earliest
achievement of peace and stability in Afghanistan is an important factor in
maintaining and strengthening security in the region.

Member States support the settlement
of intra-Afghan conflict through the promotion of an inclusive process of
national reconciliation and proceed from the fact that these efforts should be
undertaken under the leadership of the Afghans and by the Afghans. The UN
should play a central coordinating role in international cooperation on
Afghanistan.

Member States emphasize the need for
the earliest stabilization of the situation in the Middle East and North Africa
by political settlement of crises in accordance with the principles of the UN
Charter and universally recognized norms of international law.

They reaffirm the need to preserve
the unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity and stability in Syria and that
there is no alternative to political solution to the crisis, which will allow
the Syrian people to independently determine their own future.

Member States reaffirmed the
importance of a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine on the basis of
fulfillment in good faith of the Minsk agreement dated February 12, 2015.

Member States reaffirm their
commitment to maintaining law and order at sea on the basis of the principles
of international law, in particular, those set out in the United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea. All relevant disputes should be resolved
peacefully through friendly negotiations and agreements between the parties
concerned without their internationalization and external interference. In this
context, Member States have called for the full respect of the provisions of
the aforementioned Convention, as well as the Declaration on the Conduct of
Parties in the South China Sea and the Guiding principles for its implementation.

Member States shall continue to
engage in disarmament and arms control, non-proliferation and peaceful use of
nuclear energy, political and diplomatic addressing of regional challenges to
non-proliferation regimes, in accordance with the principles of common, equal
and indivisible security for all. They stand for strict adherence to the
provisions of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons,
comprehensive and consistent promotion of all purposes and principles reflected
in the Treaty.

Member States believe that the
earliest entry into force of the Protocol on security assurances to the Treaty
on a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone in Central Asia for each party will make a
significant contribution to strengthening the global regime of nuclear non-proliferation,
ensuring regional and international peace and stability.

Member States welcome the beginning
of the practical implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to
resolve the Iranian nuclear issue, the successful implementation of which will
contribute to the expansion of international cooperation for peace, security
and stability in the region and beyond.

Member States reaffirm that
unilateral and unlimited build-up of missile defense systems by one state or
group of states, without taking into account the interests of other countries,
can be harmful to international and regional security and stability. Member
States are firmly convinced in inadmissibility of ensuring own security at the
cost of the security of others.

Member States stressed the
importance of preventing the militarization of outer space to ensure equal and
indivisible security for all and to maintain global stability. They expressed
support for the implementation of practical measures for the prevention of arms
race in outer space, the main of which is the development of an international
agreement on banning deployment of weapons in outer space.

Member States support the efforts
and initiatives aimed at strengthening the Convention on the Prohibition of
Biological and Toxin Weapons through developing a legally binding instrument to
it.

Member States, while expressing
serious concern about the growing threat of terrorist groups gaining access to
weapons of mass destruction, including the terrorist use of chemical and biological
materials, support the initiative for an international convention to combat
acts of terrorism involving chemical and biological weapons.

Member States call on the
international community to develop a peaceful, secure, fair and open
information space based on the principles of cooperation and respect for
national sovereignty and non-interference in the internal affairs of other
countries. Member States support the elaboration within the UN of universal
rules, principles and standards of responsible behavior of states in the
information space. They shall continue to strengthen cooperation in curbing the
use of information and communication technologies (ICT) by terrorist and
extremist groups to carry out illegal and subversive activities, enhance cooperation
in the joint fight against the use of ICT for criminal purposes, strive to
develop a relevant universal legal instrument within the framework of the UN.

Member States shall continue to
deepen practical cooperation for the implementation of the Agreement between
the governments of SCO Member States on cooperation in the field of
international information security.

In this context, Member States
intend to increase cooperation in the field of Internet governance and stand
for equal rights of all countries to govern this network, primarily to ensure
the sovereign rights of states over Internet governance in their national
segment.

***

Member States emphasize that
international terrorism and extremism, including their religious and other
manifestations, pose equally growing threat to all countries of the world and
human civilization as a whole.

Member States are convinced that
this evil may be defeated and eliminated only by increasing joint struggle,
developing enforcement actions against both the symptoms and roots of the
problem and by common consolidated efforts of the international community on
the firm basis of international law and common integrated approaches.

In the context of the fight against
terrorism, separatism, extremism and other new challenges and threats, the SCO
Member States stand for the early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention
on International Terrorism.

The importance of developing
coherent political approaches in the fight against terrorism, establishment of
cooperation with international and regional organizations, observer states and
dialogue partners of the SCO, as well as other countries has been underlined in
order to create conditions for the expansion of cooperation in the fight
against terrorism in the new realities.

Member States express their
solidarity with multilateral counter-terrorism efforts and stand for the
coordination of joint actions under the aegis of the UN in the fight against
terrorist groups.

Member States reaffirm that the
struggle against terrorism, separatism and extremism in all their
manifestations, illicit drug production and trafficking, illegal smuggling of
arms, ammunition and explosives, the proliferation of weapons of mass
destruction and their means of delivery will remain among priorities of cooperation
within the framework of the Organization.

Member States note the importance of
arrangements achieved on the outcomes of the Tashkent Summit on cooperation in
the sphere of security.

Member States stand for further
close cooperation in the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism,
spread of extremist ideology, primarily among youth, as well as for the
prevention of ethnic, racial, religious intolerance and xenophobia. In this
connection, Member States, in accordance with the decision of the CHS SCO dated
July 10, 2015, shall continue the work on the preparation of the SCO Convention
on Combating Extremism, which will contribute to strengthening the legal
framework for cooperation in this field, along with the implementation of the
Shanghai Convention on Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism and the
Cooperation Program of SCO Member States in Combating Terrorism, Separatism and
Extremism for 2016-2018.

Combating cross-border organized
crime, crimes with the use of modern information and communication
technologies, strengthening border security, joint fight against illegal
migration and human trafficking, money laundering, financing of terrorism and
economic crimes remains an urgent item on the agenda of the SCO. The importance
of practical implementation of the provisions of the Agreement between the
Governments of SCO Member States on Cooperation in Combating Crime dated June
11, 2010 has been noted.

Member States, noting the outcomes
of the Special Session of the UN General Assembly on the world drug problem
held in New York, shall continue strengthening practical cooperation in the
fight against illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances
and their precursors in the region on the basis of international legal instruments
adopted by the SCO.

Member States stand for further
development of cooperation within the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure in
the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism.

Expressing concern about the growing
problem of international drug threat, Member States reaffirm strong commitment
to the course of preserving and strengthening the existing international drug
control system based on the three basic UN conventions. They believe it is
important to join efforts under the central coordinating role of the UN on the
basis of integrated and balanced approach, as well as the principle of common
and shared responsibility of states for eradication of global drug production,
elimination of illicit narcotic plantations and their processing facilities, to
create an effective system of legal response to the emergence of new synthetic
drugs and other psychoactive substances and strengthen cooperation in the
fields of drug-addict rehabilitation and effective reduction of demand for
drugs.

***

Member States note that the global
economy is still suffering from the effects of the global financial and
economic crisis, which led to reduction in aggregate demand, sharp price
fluctuations on key commodity and raw material markets, slowdown in economic
growth and other negative consequences. In order to counter the continuing
threats and challenges, all countries should strive for a profound
transformation of the global economy through large-scale, structural changes,
diversification and improving the competitiveness of economies and innovative
development on a long-term basis.

Member States note that a
significant potential for trade and economic relations and investment
cooperation within the SCO framework, accumulated during 15 years-long activity
of the Organization, provides positive trends in the development of regional
economic cooperation and promotes the improvement of cooperation mechanisms.
They believe that harmonious development in the SCO area meets the interests of
balanced economic growth in the region as a whole. In this regard, the
coordinated actions shall be taken for further expansion of mutually beneficial
trade and economic cooperation within the Organization, including through
creation of favorable conditions for trade, mutual investments and cooperation
between business communities.

Member States confirm the importance
of practical implementation of the agreements set forth in the Statement of
Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the SCO Member States on Regional
Economic Cooperation, adopted in Zhengzhou on December 15, 2015.

In these conditions, Member States
shall seek the pairing of national development strategies and strengthen the
coordination of their economic and trade programs. They believe it is important
to adopt the measures to ensuring sustainable socio-economic growth and
improving the welfare and living standards of the population, further
strengthening of cooperation in the spheres of trade, industry, finance,
investments, agriculture, customs, telecommunications, including the use of
satellite navigation systems, and other spheres of mutual interest. Special
attention shall be paid to the exchange of experience for effective countering
of economic slowdown, introduction of innovative technologies, formation of
favorable investment and business climate, implementation of long-term mutually
beneficial projects in the priority areas of cooperation and development of
infrastructure.

Member States reaffirm the support
for the initiative of the People's Republic of China on the creation of the
Silk Road Economic Belt. For these purposes, the work shall continue to
implement this project as one of the tools of creation of favorable conditions
for the development of regional economic cooperation.

Member States noted the importance
of continuing the mutually beneficial multifaceted cooperation in the energy
sphere, including in the field of renewable and alternative energy sources.

Member States shall promote
multilateral cooperation in transport sector and facilitate the formation of international
transport corridors, which must become a connecting link between Asia and
Europe, implement joint infrastructure projects providing for the expansion of
economically justified transport and communication opportunities and fulfill
the transit potential of the region. In this context, Member States note the
importance of the early entering into force and implementation of the Agreement
between the Governments of SCO Member States on Establishing Favorable
Conditions for International Road Transport (Dushanbe, 12 September 2014).

Member States shall focus their
efforts on practical implementation of specific projects of common interest, as
reflected in the Action Plan for implementation of the Program for Multilateral
Cooperation in Trade and Economy of the SCO Member States, as well as on the
preparation of the List of events for further development of project activities
within the SCO framework for 2017- 2021.

Member States stand for the further
expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation with the observer countries and
dialogue partners in order to increase the capacity of joint activities within
the SCO. In this regard, a great importance is attached to comprehensively
fulfilling the potential of the SCO Business Council and the SCO Interbank Association.

In order to provide financial
support to project activities, Member States shall continue the consideration
of the issue of establishment of the SCO Development Bank and the SCO
Development Fund (Special Account).

Member States shall pay special
attention to the development of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the
spheres of public health, science and technology, education, environment
protection, sports, tourism, study and preservation of cultural and natural
heritage of the SCO region, including along the «Great Silk Road».

***

Member States reaffirm that the SCO
is open for accession by interested states which meet the criteria and
conditions contained in normative legal documents of the Organization. Signing
of memoranda on obligations of the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic
of Pakistan to obtain the SCO member state status upon the outcomes of this
summit is a practical step in the process of expanding the SCO.

Member States noted that obtaining
the full member status by India and Pakistan shall increase the potential of
the Organization and contribute to the further enhancement of its role in the
international arena as a multilateral mechanism for addressing the urgent
problems of contemporary time, ensuring security, stability and sustainable
development in the region.

Member States shall deepen the
dialogue and cooperation with international and regional organizations with
which the SCO established official relations, as well as encourage external
contacts in order to further establish a partner network of multilateral
associations in line with the initiative launched by the SCO Heads of State at
the Tashkent Summit in 2004.

***

Member States, while maintaining
commitment to peace, common development and equal relations based on the
principles of mutual respect, friendship and good neighborliness, shall further
continue constructive and trusting dialogue, deepen effective multilateral
cooperation, make every effort to strengthen security and stability, and ensure
sustainable development in the SCO area.

On 23-24 June a meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the
Shanghai Cooperation Organization under the Presidency of Uzbekistan took place
at the Kuksaroy residence.

The SCO summit started with a
meeting of the Heads of member-states of the SCO in a narrow format. The
meeting, chaired by President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, was
attended by President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev,
President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, President of the Kyrgyz
Republic Almazbek Atambayev, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir
Putin, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon.

The issues of further developing
trade-economic partnership among the member-states of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization, enhancing the SCO activities, strengthening regional security and
stability, fight against terrorism, religious extremism and separatism were
discussed at the meeting.

The Shanghai Cooperation
Organization was established on 15 June 2001 in Shanghai based on the
Declaration on establishing the SCO, signed by Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, China,
Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan. The main goals and tasks of the organization
were defined as consolidating mutual trust, friendship and good neighborhood,
development of cooperation in political, trade-economic, scientific-technical,
cultural-humanitarian, power energy, transport and other spheres, ensuring
peace, security and stability in the region.

The SCO Charter provides that
member-states comply with the principles of respect for independence,
territorial integrity and inviolability of borders, equality, mutual
understanding, non-interference in internal affairs, non-use of force in
international relations and settling disputes peacefully.

Over the past 15 years a solid legal
basis for the organization has been created and its secretariat and divisions
have been established. Currently, the SCO, as an authoritative
intergovernmental organization, has a strong place in the international arena,
it has become an effective mechanism of multilateral cooperation.

Uzbekistan, as one of the founding
states, having a huge economic and geopolitical potential, plays a special role
in its activities. Our country considers the SCO as an important means of
developing trade and economic ties, cultural and humanitarian cooperation as
well as strengthening regional security, fight against terrorism, extremism,
drug trafficking and weapons.

This is the third time Uzbekistan
has chaired in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Our country presided in
the SCO in 2003-2004 and 2009-2010.

Uzbekistan, during its first
presidency in the SCO, enriched the organization with substance. Within the
frameworks of the summit in Tashkent on 17 June 2004, a permanent body of the
organization - The Executive Committee of the Regional Antiterrorist Structure
were established. The regular meetings of Secretaries of Security Councils have
been launched. It serves as an important factor in strengthening peace and
stability, preventing various threats and challenges, which is one of the main
objectives of the SCO.

At the summit in 2004 the Convention
on the powers and immunities of the SCO, the Agreement on cooperation in
combating illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances,
the Regulation on the status of observer at the SCO and other documents were
signed. Pakistan, India, Iran and Mongolia gained an observer status at the
SCO. At the initiative of President Islam Karimov the President of Afghanistan
was invited as a guest for the first time to the summit. Later, Afghanistan
received an observer status at the SCO.

The second presidency of Uzbekistan
also raised the activity of the SCO to the next level. During his visit to our
country in April 2010, Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon
signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation between the Secretariats of the SCO
and the United Nations, which served as the basis for the relationship of the
Shanghai Cooperation Organization with this global structure.

During the Tashkent summit, held on
11 June 2010, important documents - SCO Rules of Procedure and the Regulations
on the procedure for admitting new members to the SCO were adopted.

On July 11, 2015 the presidency in
the organization was passed to the Republic of Uzbekistan. Our country, along
with Member States, has carried out significant work on expansion of
cooperation within the SCO framework, better coordination of relationships,
strengthening the role of the organization in the international arena.

Uzbekistan paid special attention to
improving the efficiency of the organization through the development of
international relations of the SCO, development and implementation of
initiatives related to the security and stability.

The Heads of State discussed the
main results of the 15 years-long activity of the SCO. It was noted that the
positions of the SCO as a significant and influential player in the
international area have consolidated.

At the meeting it was stressed that
international terrorism, extremism and their other manifestations are now a
growing threat for all countries of the world. It is possible to counter these
challenges only by strengthening the joint cooperation and consolidation of
efforts of the world community.

In accordance with the provisions of
the Charter and other documents of the SCO, development and implementation of
measures for joint counteraction to terrorism, separatism and extremism,
illicit drug production and trafficking, illegal trafficking of arms,
ammunition and explosives, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and
their means of delivery will continue to be a priority area of interaction
within the organization.

The need to intensify joint efforts
to create a safe, fair and open information space, relying on the principles of
cooperation and respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in the
internal affairs of other countries was underlined.

At the meeting the sides discussed
topical issues of the priority directions of multilateral cooperation, as well
as the situation in the region and the world.

Particular attention was paid to
exchanging experience on effectively countering a slowdown of the economy,
introduction of innovative technologies, formation of a favorable investment
and business climate, implementation of long-term mutually beneficial projects
in the priority areas of cooperation and infrastructure development.

The meeting paid special attention
to developing cooperation in transport communications, energy, culture and
other areas.

The heads of delegations of the SCO
observer states - President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Gani,
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Prime Minister of the Republic of
India Narendra Modi, President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, President of
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain, Minister of Foreign Affairs
of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif and the guest of the
presiding state - President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also
attended the extended meeting of the SCO summit.

UN Under-Secretary-General Jeffrey
Feltman, Chairman of the Executive Committee - Executive Secretary of the
Commonwealth of Independent States Sergey Lebedev, Secretary General of the
Collective Security Treaty Organization Nikolay Bordyuzha, ASEAN
Secretary-General Le Luong Minh and Executive Director of the Secretariat of
Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building measures in Asia Gong Jianwei
were also present.

Signing of memoranda on obligations
of the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to obtain the SCO
member state status at the Tashkent summit was an important stage in the
process of expanding the SCO.

The Heads of State noted that
obtaining the full member status by India and Pakistan shall increase the
potential of the Organization and contribute to the further enhancement of its
role in the international arena as a multilateral mechanism for addressing the
urgent problems of contemporary time, ensuring security, stability and sustainable
development in the region and the world as a whole.

The Heads of State welcomed the
signing of memoranda on granting the SCO Dialogue Partner status to the
Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Armenia, the Kingdom of Cambodia and
Nepal.

Following the summit meeting, the
Tashkent Declaration of the Fifteenth Anniversary of the SCO, the Action Plan
2016-2020 for the implementation of the SCO Development Strategy towards 2025,
Program on Development of Cooperation of the SCO Member States in the Sphere of
Tourism and other documents were signed.

The meeting highly appreciated the
activities of the Republic of Uzbekistan during its presidency in the SCO.

At the press briefing with mass
media representatives, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov pointed out that
the meeting was held in the spirit of mutual trust and respect, the reached
agreements r will serve the interests of the SCO member states and observer
countries.

SCO Secretary-General Rashid Alimov
emphasized the historical importance of Uzbekistan's presidency in the
organization, high level of organization of all activities in the framework of
its presidency and the SCO Tashkent summit as a whole. He expressed his sincere
gratitude to the people and leadership of Uzbekistan.

The Tashkent SCO summit concluded
its work. Surely, it takes a special place in the history of the SCO as a
summit at which important agreements were reached in order to enhance the
efficiency of the organization, promoting regional cooperation and
strengthening security.

The Republic of Kazakhstan shall
take over the presidency in the Organization for the upcoming period.

(Source: Press-service
of the President of the Republic
of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Atambayev arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part as an observer at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On 23 June at the Kuksaroy residence President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who arrived in our country to take part in the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Islam Karimov, during talks with President of Turkminstan, noted that his participation at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the member-states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as the guest of honor is yet another manifestation of the partnership, based on mutual trust and good neighborliness between our countries. This also attests to growing authority and strengthening positions of our countries in the region and international community.

The interactions between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan have been dynamically growing. High-level meetings occur regularly.

In 2015 the volume of mutual trade turnover reached 320 million US dollars. Our country exports motor vehicles, agricultural machinery, mineral fertilizers, food products and other goods to Turkmenistan. Oil and oil products are imported from Turkmenistan.

Transportation and transit sphere is a strategic area of cooperation. This is corroborated by the fact that last year the volume of cargo from Uzbekistan, transported through the territory of Turkmenistan, grew by 43 per cent.

The issues of further developing trade-economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation have been discussed at the meeting. The parties exchanged opinions on the issues of regional and international significance.

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov conveyed his sincere gratitude to President Islam Karimov for the invitation to the SCO summit and underlined that Turkmenistan is interested in further developing multi-faceted cooperation with Uzbekistan.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On 23 June at the Kuksaroy residence President Islam Karimov met with President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, who arrived in our country to take part at the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

During the meeting with President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, it was noted that the Uzbek and Tajik peoples are linked by ancient ties of friendship and good neighborliness, common culture and traditions.

Nowadays the cooperation between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is steadily developing in many spheres, the volume of mutual trade turnover is increasing. In the first four months of 2016 this indicator rose by 17,6 per cent.

It was underlined at the meeting that our countries have many unused opportunities and the parties are interested in their full utilization. The issues of further strengthening relations in trade-economic, cultural-humanitarian and other spheres have been considered.

Emomali Rahmon stressed that Tajikistan highly values the cooperation with Uzbekistan and today’s meeting has been a good opportunity to discuss the current state and prospects of developing bilateral cooperation. The high-ranking guest expressed earnest gratitude to the President of our country for a warm welcome.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On 23 June at the Kuksaroy residence President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi, who arrived in our country to take part at the summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

At the meeting with Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Islam Karimov highlighted that this meeting is a logical continuation of political negotiations on the highest level and a good opportunity to discuss the pace of implementation of reached agreements and to determine prospects of cooperation.

Uzbekistan pays a special attention to relations with India. Trade-economic and investment cooperation between our countries has steadily improved. In the last five years the mutual trade turnover increased twofold. In 2015 this indicator amounted to around 320 million US dollars. Over 100 enterprises with Indian capital and representative offices of 15 firms and companies of this country operate in Uzbekistan.

Investment cooperation is widening as well. A number of joint projects, targeted towards production of competitive industrial goods, are implemented in our country. In collaboration with Indian company “Minda Group”, speedometers, tachometers and other types of electronic devices for cars are produced at the Navoi special industrial and economic zone. Novafarm, Ultra Health Care, Well Med Farm enterprises manufacture pharmaceutical products in wide assortment.

Uzbekistan and India are strengthening cooperation within the frameworks of regional and international organizations, actively support each other on world stage.

The President of our country noted that Uzbekistan supports India’s efforts to join the SCO and this will increase the authority of the organization and serve to ensure peaceful life and welfare growth of region’s peoples.

Narendra Modi expressed candid appreciation to President Islam Karimov for a warm welcome and stressed that India is interested in further developing cooperation with Uzbekistan.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On 23 June President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, who arrived in our country to take part at the summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

During the talks with Vladimir Putin, Islam Karimov particularly underlined that this meeting is a logical continuation of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, a vivid example of development of the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Russia.

The relations of Uzbekistan and Russia are steadily developing in all spheres. In 2015 the volume of mutual trade turnover amounted to 4,4 billion US dollars.

As was noted at the meeting, the results of the negotiations on the highest level in March 2016 in Moscow have given a new impulse to the development of mutual cooperation.

The Presidents exchanged views on a wide array of issues, concerning Uzbek-Russian relations, regional and international problems.

Vladimir Putin highly assessed the works, carried out during the period of the presidency of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He expressed his confidence that the upcoming SCO summit will serve to further enhance regional cooperation in all spheres.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with President of the Kyrgyz Republic Almazbek Atambayev, who arrived in our country to take part at the summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, on 24 June at the Kuksaroy residence.

The current state and prospects of cooperation of the two countries were discussed at the meeting.

Uzbekistan contributes to strengthening peace and stability in the region, develops mutually beneficial cooperation with all countries, first of all, with neighboring states, in accordance with its foreign policy concept. The Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan-China railway line is a good manifestation. This modern transport corridor plays an important role in further widening trade-economic cooperation between our countries.

The parties considered further development of trade-economic, cultural-humanitarian ties, strengthening security and stability in the region.

Almazbek Atambayev expressed his sincere thanks to President Islam Karimov for a warm welcome and underlined the high level of organization of the SCO summit, which may serve as an exemplar in the future. The guest stressed that Kyrgyzstan aims to strengthen good neighborhood and partner ties with Uzbekistan.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On 24 June at the Kuksaroy residence President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met with President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani.

President Islam Karimov noted that the first visit of Ashraf Ghani to Uzbekistan will serve to further elevate the cooperation of our countries to a new level.

The peoples of Uzbekistan and Afghanistan share common history, similar traditions and customs.

Uzbekistan, always adhering to people’s wisdom “Tranquility of your neighbor is your peace of mind”, is a supporter of establishment of peace in Afghanistan, reconstruction of the country’s economy. Uzbekistan exports electricity, fruits and vegetables, oil products and mineral fertilizers to Afghanistan. In the first four months of 2016 the volume of mutual trade turnover increased by 14 per cent.

The issues of further increasing the mutual trade and widening the assortment of goods were discussed at the meeting. The parties exchanged opinions on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expressed sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan for a warm welcome and underlined that Afghanistan is interested in further development of cooperation with our country.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov held a meeting with President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain on 24 June at the Kuksaroy residence.

Islam Karimov noted that the first visit of Mamnoon Hussain to our country is an important event in the history of bilateral relations.

Pakistan is a close neighbor of Uzbekistan and possesses a huge economic potential. The cooperation of our countries plays a significant role in consolidating peace and security in the region.

Our countries support each other in topical issues of regional and international significance. Uzbekistan supported the adoption of Pakistan as a member of the SCO and during its presidency paid a special attention to this issue. In this regard a corresponding Action Plan has been developed and implemented.

Signing of the memorandum on obligations for membership to the SCO within the frameworks of the summit came to be a practical accomplishment of this plan.

The prospects of developing mutual relations were discussed and the parties shared views on regional and international issues at the meeting.

Mamnoon Hussain conveyed his sincere thanks to Islam Karimov for extended hospitality and stressed that Pakistan is interested in further developing cooperation with Uzbekistan.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov held a meeting with President of the Republic of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj.

President Islam Karimov emphasized that the visit of Mongolia’s President to our country opens wide opportunities for reinvigorating a bilateral cooperation.

Uzbekistan and Mongolia have a huge potential for developing cooperation. Its utilization, development of prospects areas of strengthening partnership, mutually beneficial projects meet the interests of our countries and peoples.

The sides paid attention to enhancing ties in trade-economic, cultural-humanitarian and other spheres at the meeting.

The President of Mongolia expressed sincere appreciation to the President of Uzbekistan for the meeting and noted that the SCO summit was organized on a high level. The high-ranking guest underlined that Mongolia is interested in widening trade-economic relations with Uzbekistan.

(Source: Press-service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

On June 23, 2016, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Kamilov met with the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Jeffrey Feltman, who arrived in Tashkent to attend the meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the state and prospects of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN.

The parties paid special attention to regional issues, bilateral and multilateral programs and projects aimed at mitigating the environmental disaster in the Aral Sea basin.

The UN Resident Coordinator, Permanent Representative of the United Nations Development Program Stephan Prisner attended the meeting.

A summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has started with a meeting of the heads of the organization’s Member States in private session.

Taking part in the session under the chairmanship of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Almazbek Atambayev, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon.

In the talks, there is discussion in progress about issues of further improving the norm-setting and legal aspects of the SCO’s activities, consistently developing political, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation among the organization’s member states, jointly fighting against terrorism, separatism and extremism, against narcotic substances and weapons smuggling and against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and also about issues of strengthening regional security and stability and the situation in Afghanistan.

On 23-24 June, 2016, the capital city of the Republic of Uzbekistan Tashkent hosted the sixteenth meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (CHS SCO) on the 15th anniversary of establishment of the SCO.

The meeting of the CHS SCO was attended by President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Almazbek Atambayev, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov.

President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov chaired the meeting.

The SCO Secretary General Rashid Alimov and Director of the Executive Committee of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the SCO Yevgeniy Sysoyev participated in the meeting.

The heads of delegations of the SCO observer states - President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Gani, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi, President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif and the guest of the presiding state - President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also attended and addressed the meeting.

UN Under-Secretary-General Jeffrey Feltman, Chairman of the Executive Committee - Executive Secretary of the Commonwealth of Independent States Sergey Lebedev, Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization Nikolay Bordyuzha, ASEAN Secretary-General Le Luong Minh and Executive Director of the Secretariat of Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building measures in Asia Gong Jianwei were also present.

The Heads of State discussed in a constructive and friendly atmosphere the main results of the 15 years-long activity of the SCO and exchanged views on a wide range of issues of the situation in the world and in the region.

The Heads of State noted that the SCO has consolidated as a significant and influential player in the international arena. The priority tasks of practical activity of the Organization, as well as common approaches of the Heads of State towards regional and international issues are reflected in the Tashkent Declaration of the Fifteenth Anniversary of the SCO signed at the summit.

The Heads of State have once again reaffirmed that the SCO is open for accession by interested states which meet the criteria and conditions contained in normative legal documents of the Organization. Signing of memoranda on obligations of the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to obtain the SCO member state status at the Tashkent summit is an important stage in the process of expanding the SCO.

The Heads of State noted that obtaining the full member status by India and Pakistan shall increase the potential of the Organization and contribute to the further enhancement of its role in the international arena as a multilateral mechanism for addressing the urgent problems of contemporary time, ensuring security, stability and sustainable development in the region and the world as a whole.

The Heads of State welcomed the signing of memoranda on granting the SCO Dialogue Partner status to the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Armenia, the Kingdom of Cambodia and Nepal.

The Heads of State reaffirmed that the activity of the SCO is not directed against other states or international organizations. Member States stand ready to develop contacts and cooperation with other countries, international and regional organizations that share the goals and objectives enshrined in the Charter of the SCO and other fundamental documents of the Organization.

The Heads of State welcomed the beginning of the practical implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue, the successful implementation of which will contribute to the expansion of international cooperation for peace, security and stability in the region and beyond.

The Heads of State called for the continuation of improvement of the mechanism of regular consultations with the observer states and dialogue partners in order to enhance the practical results of cooperation in various fields.

The Heads of State noted the importance of further expansion of international contacts of the SCO, development of cooperation with international and regional organizations, above all with the UN and its institutions. Member States shall continue the development of external relations of the SCO and consider the expediency of establishing contacts with other interested multilateral organizations.

It was noted that all preconditions are in place now to elevate the SCO to a qualitatively new level of cooperation, characterized by increasing the efficiency of cooperation in the spheres of politics, security, economy, development of cultural and humanitarian ties. In this regard, adoption of the Action Plan 2016-2020 for the implementation of the SCO Development Strategy towards 2025 has a special significance.

The Heads of State noted the importance of enhancement of the mechanisms of global governance on the basis of objectives and principles of the UN Charter, establishment of fair and equitable world order to strengthen the political and economic stability.

The Heads of State reaffirmed commitment of the SCO Member States to further strengthening the central coordinating role of the UN in international relations, which must be based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law. They stood for continuation of extensive consultations in search of a “package solution” for reforming the UN Security Council in order to improve transparency and effectiveness of this body, guided by the interests of ensuring the unity of the UN Member States, without setting artificial timelines and expediting the options which do not enjoy a broad support of the UN Member States.

The Heads of State emphasized that international terrorism and extremism, including its religious and other manifestations, now pose equally growing threat to all countries of the world and human civilization as a whole. They are convinced that these challenges may only be countered by increasing joint struggle and common consolidated efforts of the international community on the implementation of comprehensive measures in order to address their root causes.

The Heads of State reaffirmed that, in accordance with the provisions of the SCO Charter and other documents of the SCO, development and implementation of measures for the joint struggle against terrorism, separatism and extremism in all their manifestations, illicit drug production and trafficking, illegal smuggling of arms, ammunition and explosives, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery shall remain among priorities of cooperation within the framework of the Organization.

The Heads of State called for the early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and emphasized the importance of creation of an effective platform of extensive cooperation in countering the challenges and threats to regional security.

The Heads of State noted the importance of arrangements on security cooperation achieved at the Tashkent summit.

The Heads of State supported the further close cooperation in the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism, spread of extremist ideology, primarily among youth, as well as for the prevention of ethnic, racial, religious intolerance and xenophobia. In this connection, in accordance with the decision of the CHS SCO dated July 10, 2015, the work shall continue on the preparation of the SCO Convention on Combating Extremism, which will contribute to strengthening the legal framework for cooperation in this field along with the implementation of the Shanghai Convention on Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism and the Cooperation Program of SCO Member States in Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism for 2016-2018.

Combating cross-border organized crime, crimes with the use of modern information and communication technologies, strengthening border security, joint fight against illegal migration and human trafficking, money laundering, financing of terrorism and economic crimes remain among urgent directions of the activity of the SCO. In this regard, the importance of practical implementation of the provisions of the Agreement between the Governments of SCO Member States on Cooperation in Combating Crime dated June 11, 2010 has been noted.

The Heads of State have highly assessed the work of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the SCO in ensuring the coordination of interaction between the competent authorities of Member States in terms of implementation of the agreements in the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism and called for further development of cooperation in this area.

The Heads of State noted the need to intensify joint efforts to create a peaceful, safe, fair and open information space based on the principles of cooperation and respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. The importance of deepening practical cooperation in the framework of the SCO Intergovernmental Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of International Information Security dated June 16, 2009 was emphasized.

The Heads of State noted that the global economy is still suffering from the effects of the global financial and economic crisis, which led to reduction in aggregate demand, sharp price fluctuations on key commodity and raw material markets, slowdown in economic growth and other negative consequences. It was emphasized that in order to counter the continuing threats and challenges, all countries should strive for a profound transformation of the global economy through large-scale, structural changes, diversification and improving competitiveness of economies and innovative development on a long-term basis.

The Heads of State noted that a significant potential for trade and economic relations and investment cooperation within the SCO framework, accumulated during 15 years-long activity of the Organization, provides for positive trends in the development of regional economic cooperation and promotes the improvement of cooperation mechanisms. They believe that harmonious development in the SCO area meets the interests of balanced economic growth in the region as a whole. In this regard, the coordinated actions shall be taken for further expansion of mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation within the Organization, including through the creation of favorable conditions for trade, mutual investments and cooperation between business communities.

The Heads of State reaffirmed the importance of practical implementation of the agreements set forth in the Statement of Heads of Government (Prime Ministers) of the SCO Member States on Regional Economic Cooperation, adopted in Zhengzhou on December 15, 2015.

In these conditions, Member States shall seek the pairing of national development strategies and strengthen the coordination of their economic and trade programs. The Heads of State believe it is important to adopt the measures to ensuring sustainable socio-economic growth and improving the welfare and living standards of the population, further strengthening of cooperation in the spheres of trade, industry, finance, investments, agriculture, customs, telecommunications, including the use of satellite navigation systems, and other spheres of mutual interest. Special attention shall be paid to the exchange of experience for effectively countering the economic slowdown, introducing innovative technologies, forming the favorable investment and business climate, implementing long-term mutually beneficial projects in the priority areas of cooperation and development of infrastructure.

The Heads of State reaffirmed the support for the initiative of the People's Republic of China on the creation of the Silk Road Economic Belt. For these purposes, the work shall continue to implement this project as one of the tools of creation of favorable conditions for the development of regional economic cooperation.

The Heads of State noted the importance of continuing the mutually beneficial multifaceted cooperation in the energy sphere, including in the field of renewable and alternative energy sources.

The Heads of State emphasized the need to promote multilateral cooperation in transport sector and facilitate the formation of international transport corridors, which must become a connecting link between Asia and Europe, implement joint infrastructure projects providing for the expansion of economically justified transport and communication opportunities and fulfill the transit potential of the region. In this context, the importance of the early entering into force and implementation of the Agreement between the Governments of SCO Member States on Establishing Favorable Conditions for International Road Transport (Dushanbe, 12 September 2014) has been noted.

The Heads of State supported the practical implementation of specific projects of common interest, reflected in the Action Plan for implementation of the Program for Multilateral Cooperation in Trade and Economy of the SCO Member States, as well as on the preparation of the List of events for further development of project activities within the SCO framework for 2017- 2021.

The Heads of State called for the further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation with the observer countries and dialogue partners in order to increase the capacity of joint activities within the SCO. In this regard, a great importance is attached to comprehensively fulfilling the potential of the SCO Business Council and the SCO Interbank Association.

In order to provide financial support to project activities, Member States shall continue the consideration of the issue of establishment of the SCO Development Bank and the SCO Development Fund (Special Account).

The Heads of State believe it is necessary to pay special attention to the development of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the spheres of public health, science and technology, education, environment protection, sports, tourism, study and preservation of cultural and natural heritage of the SCO region, including along the «Great Silk Road».

With the view of enhancing cooperation in the field of tourism, forming a common tourist space, intensifying tourist exchanges, the authorized representatives of Member States signed the Program of Cooperation of SCO Member States in the tourism sector.

The reports of the SCO Secretary General on the activities of the Organization during the past year and the RATS Council on the work of the structure in 2015 have been heard and approved.

During the past period since the meeting of the CHS SCO (Ufa, July 9-10, 2015), the following meetings have been held: Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO Member States (Zhengzhou, December 14-15, 2015), Meeting of the Secretaries of Security Councils (Tashkent, April 13-14, 2016), Meeting of the Council of Ministers Foreign Affairs (Tashkent, May 23-24, 2016), Meeting the Council of National Coordinators (Beijing, Tashkent, October 2015 - June 2016), Meeting of the RATS Council (Tashkent, September 18, 2015 and April 8, 2016), Meeting of the Ministers of Justice (Dushanbe, August 18, 2015), Meeting of General Prosecutors (Astana, August 27m 2015), Meeting of Chairpersons of the Supreme Courts (Bishkek, September 3-6, 2015), Economic and Trade Ministers' Meeting (Xi'an, September 16, 2015 ), Meeting of Heads of Emergency Prevention and Relief Agencies (Chengdu, November 11-12, 2015), XI Meeting of the SCO Forum (Dushanbe, April 28-29, 2016), Meeting of the Heads of Supreme Audit Institutions (Astana, May 27, 2016), Meeting of Defense Ministers (Astana, June 8, 2016), Meeting of the Ministers of Culture (Tashkent, June 21-22, 2016), Meetings of the Board of the SCO Business Council and the Council of the SCO Interbank Association (Tashkent, June 22-23 2016).

***

Member States have highly praised the presidency of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the SCO and expressed gratitude to the Uzbek side for the traditional warm hospitality extended during the Tashkent summit.

The next meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the SCO will be held in June 2017 in Astana. The Republic of Kazakhstan shall take over the presidency in the Organization for the upcoming period.

2. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the Adoption of the Action Plan for 2016-2020 on Implementation of Development Strategy of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization until 2025.

3. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on Signing the Memorandum of Obligations of the Republic of India with the Aim of Obtaining the Status of the Member State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

4. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on Signing the Memorandum of Obligations of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with the Aim of Obtaining the Status of the Member State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

5. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the Adoption of the Report of the Secretary General of the Organization on the Activities of the SCO during the Past Year.

6. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the Adoption of the Report of the Council of the SCO RATS on the Activities of the RATS during the Past Year.

7. Decision of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the Dates of Meetings of the Council of Heads of the SCO Member States.

8. Information Report on the Outcomes of the meeting of the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Documents signed in the presence of Heads of the SCO Member States

9. Memorandum of Obligations of the Republic of India with the Aim of Obtaining the Status of the Member State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

10. Memorandum of Obligations of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with the Aim of Obtaining the Status of the Member State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Document signed in the framework of the meeting of the Council of Heads of the SCO Member States

11. Program on Development of Cooperation of the SCO Member States in the Sphere of Tourism.

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov on 24 June visited a square in Tashkent, where a monument of the great Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin is Iocated.

In our country, where over one hundred and thirty ethnicities live in friendship and accord, all legal bases for careful preservation of traditions and customs of representative of all nationalities are created. Under the leadership of the head of our state, a particular attention is paid to developing literature and arts, as well translating the best works of the world literature into Uzbek.

The peoples of Uzbekistan and Russia know very well each other’s literature and arts. The square, where the monument of Pushkin stands, is one of the favorite places of metropolitan residents and guests. The Russian cultural centre operates in Uzbekistan. Branches of the Moscow state university named after M.Lomonosov, Russian Economics University named after G.Plekhanov, Russian state university of oil and gas named after I.Gubkin function in Tashkent.

A magnificent monument of the great Uzbek poet and thinker Alisher Navoi is installed in the centre of Moscow.

A lot of works on studying and dissemination of the works of the world literature classics, their wide use in educating the younger generation in the spirit of universal human values are carried out, which is also manifested in studying the creative works of A.S.Pushkin. The 217th anniversary of the birthday of the great Russian poet has been celebrated widely this year. Many poetry parties, cultural-enlightenment events were held, dedicated to the works of Pushkin, who glorified the ideas of peace, friendship, love and freedom.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov and President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin laid flowers to the monument of Pushkin.

Landscaping and greening works in the square have made a great impression on the high-ranking guest. The President of the Russian Federation noted that veneration for the works of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin, in line with other representatives of the world literature, the monument of Pushkin, are a demonstration of traditionally friendly ties between our peoples.

Vladimir Putin underlined that the visit to Uzbekistan was fruitful and expressed his gratitude to President Islam Karimov for substantive negotiations. The President of Russia highly assessed the efforts of our country during the presidency in the SCO on further bolstering the activity of the organization. The Tashkent summit, held in constructive spirit, will support further development of cooperation among the member-states of the SCO, enriching its substance.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov accompanied President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to the Tashkent International Airport.

On 22-23 June a regular session of the Council of Interbank association of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO IBA) took place in Tashkent under the presidency of Uzbekistan.

SCO Secretary General R.Alimov, heads of the Development bank of Kazakhstan, the “RSK Bank” of the Kyrgyz Republic, the China development bank, State Corporation "Bank for Development and Foreign Economic Affairs (Vnesheconombank)" of Russia, the State savings bank of the Republic of Tajikistan “Amonatbank”, the National bank for foreign economic activity of the Republic of Uzbekistan, also as partner banks - the Savings bank “Belarusbank”, HBL Pakistan and the Development bank of Mongolia, took part at the session.

The session heard the reports of the representative of the presiding bank of the SCO IBA Council on achieved results at the current stage of the presidency of the National bank for foreign economic activity of the Republic of Uzbekistan, other members of the Council and representatives of the partner banks of the SCO IBA on the issues of current and prospective activities. The parties noted the importance of reinvigorating cooperation in the sphere of joint financing of investment projects, interaction with financial institutions, operating in the SCO area and the Asian region. The issues of preparing the Strategy of further developing the SCO IBA for a medium-term have also been discussed.

At the session of the Council of the Interbank association of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization the parties expressed satisfaction with the process of interaction with financial institutions of SCO observer-states and dialogue partners. A decision on assigning SCO IBA partner bank status to the Development bank of Mongolia has been signed at the session.

On June 23 a meeting of the Board of the SCO Business Council under Uzbekistan’s presidency took place in Tashkent.

The SCO Secretary-General R.Alimov, Executive Secretary of the SCO Business Council R.Kanavskiy, as well as the chairpersons of the national units of the SCO Business Council from the Republic of Uzbekistan A.Shaykhov, the Republic of Kazakhstan R.Batalov, the Kyrgyz Republic M.Sharshekeev, the People's Republic of China H.Meizing, the Russian Federation S.Katyrin and the Republic of Tajikistan S.Sharif participated at the meeting.

The SCO Business Council was established on 14 June 2006 and is a non-governmental structure, uniting representatives of the business community of the SCO member-states to expand the economic cooperation, establish direct communication and dialogue between the business and financial community, assist in the practical promotion of multilateral projects.

It was underlined at the meeting of the Board of the SCO Business Council that in its period of presidency, Uzbekistan strictly adheres to the principles of continuity and consistent strengthening of mutually beneficial cooperation, meeting the interests of the SCO member states, as well as continues systemic works on ensuring the steady growth of the authority of the organization in the international arena.

Uzbekistan stands for the further development of trade and economic ties, expanding mutual deliveries of industrial products, demand in the SCO countries' markets, creation of favorable conditions to encourage mutual trade, implementation of other activities in this area, as well as hopes for a radical development of investment cooperation between the SCO countries, implementation of mutually beneficial projects and programs in priority sectors.

The participants stressed that in recent years Uzbekistan has paid a special attention to attracting foreign investments, developing modern corporate governance practices, widely adopting advanced quality management systems, as well as has taken measures, aimed at increasing the competitiveness of domestic enterprises, stimulating the production of export-oriented products, involving domestic companies in global supply chains.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the development prospects of the SCO Business Council activities, including the priorities and main directions of expansion of cooperation in the near future through the implementation of joint projects aimed at developing the economic potential of the region. In addition, during the event various aspects of cooperation in the sphere of support of small business and private entrepreneurship, as well as attracting foreign investment were considered.

In order to establish trade-economic and investment cooperation between the SCO member states, the participants of the meeting noted the importance of organizing joint activities and the ensuring of the participation of business representatives in major international forums, exhibitions and fairs held in the SCO countries.

On 23 June a concert for participants of the Tashkent summit of the SCO Heads of State Council was held at the “Uzbekiston” Palace of international forums.

Organization of such events has become a good tradition for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Almazbek Atambayev, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani, President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain, Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi, President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, SCO Secretary General Rashid Alimov enter the hall of the Palace.

The audience greet the high-ranking guests with applause.

It is deeply symbolic that a jubilee meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization started with a concert. After all, culture and arts are an important nexus of rapprochement and understanding among nations, and music does not know frontiers. The atmosphere of friendship and cooperation reigned at the “Uzbekiston” Palace of international forum from the first minutes.

The high-ranking guests were presented with a concert program, including national songs and dances of Uzbek people, as well as the best works of world opera classics.

Arts masters from Uzbekistan were greeted with excitement. Performance of the people’s artist of Uzbekistan Munojat Yulchieva, who sang the song “Ul kim jonon” in the maqom Uzbek classical musical genre, left an indelible impression on the audience. The “Raqslar guldastasi” choreographic composition, performed by “Uzbekistan” and “Navruz” dance ensembles has demonstrated the beauty and distinctiveness of the Uzbek dance school.

A winner of the “Sharq taronalari” international musical contest Nodira Pirmatova soloed the song “Ey dilbari jononim” in the “katta ashula” style, which is included into the UNESCO Representative list.

The youth symphonic orchestra of Uzbekistan played works of the Russian classics- a polonaise from the opera “Eugene Onegin” by P.Tchaikovsky. Soloists of the Alisher Navoi State academic Bolshoi theatre performed the waltz of Juliette from the opera “Romeo et Juliette” by Charles Gounod.

The people’s artist of Uzbekistan Normumin Sultanov and a winner of “Nihol” prize Masuma Boltaboeva performed the song “My love, China”, a people’s artist of Uzbekistan Zulaykho Boykhonova sang a song “My dears” in Chinese. Songs and dances of Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tajik, Turkmen and Karakalpak peoples were also performed.

Honored artist of Uzbekistan Jenisbek Piyazov performed a popular composition in Russian “Give me back the music”, winner of international contests Milena Matmusaeva appeared on stage with a song “Echo of love”. In brief, the concert demonstrated the wide palette of arts of the SCO member-states and allowed once again closely acquaint with rich culture of each other.

It should be noted that each of the performed compositions were filled with love and care for a human being, mutual respect, inter-ethnic harmony, respect for national and universal values. A composition “Jon Uzbekiston” concluded the event.

President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain arrived in Uzbekistan on 22 June to take part at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

After a brief conversation, the delegation of Pakistan has left for a designated residence.

* * *

The visit of the President of Pakistan started with a tour of ancient Samarkand. The high-level guest visited the Imam Bukhari complex, built on the initiative of President Islam Karimov. Mamnoon Hussain was acquainted with the rich spiritual heritage of the great scientist Imam Bukhari, works on studying and wide dissemination of his invaluable masterpieces, history of the construction of the complex, colossal creative works, carried out here in the years of independence.

Embodying unique traditions of the Eastern architecture, the mausoleum, the porch and magnificent mosque have left a lasting impression in the guests. Mamnoon Hussain highly assessed the consistent works, carried out under the leadership of President Islam Karimov, on profound studying and wide distribution of the heritage of our great ancestors, and noted that this place is one of sacred sites for the whole Muslim world.

During the visit to the Amir Temur mausoleum, the guest was informed about the life and activities of Sokhibqiron (his title, meaning the Possessor of the World), his efforts on developing science and culture.

A tour of the Registan architectural ensemble and the exhibition of national handicraft products also made a huge impression on the President of Pakistan. It was underlined that Mirzo Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tillakori madrassas testify to the rich culture of our people, great creative genious of our ancestors.

President of the Republic of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part as an observer at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part as an invited guest at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

(Source: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)

Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part as an observer at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai arrived in Uzbekistan on 23 June to take part as an observer at the meeting of the Heads of State Council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Tashkent.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoev welcomed the high-level guest at the Tashkent International Airport.

The SCO summit will be held under Uzbekistan’s presidency. The issues of strengthening normative-legal basis of SCO activities, political, economic, cultural-humanitarian cooperation among member-states and regional security as well as other topics of shared interest are on the summit agenda.

On 22 June 2016, Tashkent hosted the thirteenth Meeting of the ministers of culture of the member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

It was attended by Vice-Minister of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan G. A. Ahmedyarov, Minister of Culture of the People's Republic of China Lo Shugan, Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic A. A. Maksutov, First Deputy Minister of Culture of Russian Federation V.V. Aristarchus, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan Sh. Sh. Orumbekzoda, Minister of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan B. M. Ahmedov and SCO Secretary General R. K. Alimov.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan B.M.Ahmedov.

The ministers of culture of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, China, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan discussed the promising areas of cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian spheres and other issues.

The sides expressed their mutual desire to further develop cultural ties within the SCO framework, strengthening the mutual understanding and respect, harmonious coexistence of different nationalities and religions, active dissemination of knowledge about the centuries-old traditions and customs of the people of SCO member states.

The parties also agreed for further improvement of cooperation with the observer states and dialogue partners of SCO in the field of culture and art, both on a bilateral and on a multilateral basis.

The meeting participants confirmed their readiness to enhance cooperation in such areas as the study and preservation of the cultural heritage of the SCO region, preventing theft and illegal import and export of cultural property, the creation of databases and registers of monuments of architecture, training of specialists in the field of civilization and cultural heritage and restoration of art works and other directions of mutual interest.

Ministers noted that the joint activities in the field of culture and art promote understanding between people, the preservation of cultural diversity and the dissemination of knowledge about the culture of the people around the world. In this context, the meeting participants gave a high assessment to the conducted in 2015 in Uzbekistan jubilee X International Festival "Sharq taronalari - Melodies of the East", which leads to the preservation and development of traditions of music and song art of the people around the world.

The parties also agreed that successfully carried out in the territories of the SCO courtiers such activities as the International Arts Festival "Silk Road" in the Peoples Republic of China, the International Theatre Festival "Art-Ordo" in the Kyrgyz Republic, the Festival of Arts "Berdemlek - Commonwealth" in the Russian Federation and the International festival of puppet Theatres "Chodari khayol" in the Republic of Tajikistan create the possibility of expanding cultural exchange among people and contribute to the strengthening of friendship and good neighborliness. Events of this format is an exceptional opportunity to unite on one platform all the creative teams of the SCO countries and demonstrate the achievements that reflect the unique national character of each country.

Participants expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Culture and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the warm hospitality and excellent organization of the Meeting of Ministers of Culture of SCO member states.

At the end of the event, the sides agreed that the next meeting of Culture Ministers of SCO member states to be held in 2017.

A regular meeting of the ministers of culture of the SCO member states is under way there days in the capital. In honor of its participants, the State Academic Bolshoi Theatre named after Alisher Navoi hosted a concert of masters of art and young performers of Uzbekistan.

Representatives of the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, culture ministers and national coordinators of the SCO member states, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in our country were among the guests of the event.

The concert program varied from traditional Uzbek music, ending with such masterpieces of world opera art as the "Barber of Seville", "Turandot", "Faust" and "Tricks of Maysara" performed by local artists.

Ballet dancers presented to the public excerpts from the ballet "Sleeping Beauty" and "Don Quixote."

The musical performances by local artists in the Chinese, Russian, Tajik, Kazakh and Kyrgyz languages became a tribute to the traditions and cultures of the member states.

Young artists, who supported "Shanghai spirit" highly contributed to give a concert the festive atmosphere.

About a concert as well as the meeting, we were able to talk to its participants.

- This is my first visit to Uzbekistan. Cultural ties between our countries have its roots in the distant past. I am sure that today cultural ties are important. Of course, economic relations are also of great importance, but I believe that the most significant thing is the relationships between the peoples. And culture is a bridge connecting the hearts of different peoples. Cooperation in the field of culture between the two countries is at a high level. All the important political events that are taking place these days in Tashkent will serve as an impetus for further development including cultural relations between the two countries, - says the Minister of Culture of China Luo Shugang

Music is a universal language that is understood by everyone and unites not only individuals but also entire nations.

On 23-24 May a regular session of the Council of Ministers of foreign affairs of the member-states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization under the presidency of Uzbekistan took place in Tashkent.

The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerlan Idrisov, Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yi, Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Erlan Abdyldayev, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan Sirojiddin Aslov, and Foreign Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Kamilov. SCO Secretary-General Rashid Alimov and Director of the Executive Committee of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure Yevgeny Sysoyev also took part in the meeting.

As part of the preparations for the meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State due to be held in Tashkent on June 23-24, 2016, the ministers discussed the current state and prospects for promoting cooperation in different areas of the organisation’s activities and for enhancing its role and stance in international and regional affairs. It was stressed that the SCO, based on the “spirit of Shanghai,” embodying mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, mutual consultations, respect for the diversity of cultures and joint development aspirations, has asserted itself as an influential member of the modern system of international relations over 15 years since its inception.

The participants exchanged views on the implementation of the resolutions adopted at the meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State, which was held in Ufa on 9-10 July, 2015. In this regard the importance of approving a Plan of Action to implement the SCO Development Strategy towards 2025, to be submitted to the SCO Council of Heads of State for approval, was pointed out.

The ministers decided to submit for consideration to the Council of Heads of State the signing of memoranda on the commitments of the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan for their obtaining the status of SCO member-states.

The ministers welcomed the signing of memoranda to grant SCO dialogue partner status to the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Armenia, the Kingdom of Cambodia and Nepal.

The ministers noted the need for a broader involvement of the SCO observer states and the SCO dialogue partners in practical cooperation within the organisation.

The ministers confirmed that in accordance with the Charter and other SCO documents, developing and implementing measures for the joint fight against all forms of terrorism, separatism and extremism, illegal drug production and trafficking, trans-border organised crime, crimes with the use of modern information technology, illegal migration and human trafficking, illegal trafficking in arms, ammunition and explosives, and proliferation of mass destruction weapons and their delivery vehicles would remain a priority in cooperation within the organisation.

The significance of continuing efforts on preparation of the SCO Convention on combating extremism, in accordance with the resolution of the Council of Heads of State on 10 July 2015, was highlighted. The Convention will assist to strengthen the legal base in this sphere along with the Shanghai Convention on fighting terrorism, separatism and extremism and the Programme of cooperation of the SCO member states on fighting terrorism, separatism and extremism for 2016-2018.

The ministers exchanged views on actual regional and international problems, main trends of their development, issues of strengthening security and stability in the region.

The ministers affirmed adherence of the SCO member-states to consistently strengthen central coordinating role of the UN in international relations, which should be based on international law, including goals and principles of the UN Charter. First of all, this relates to joint efforts on supporting stability and security in the world, developing cooperation among nations, independence, equality, as well as ensuring the right of self-determination of a social structure and development pathway, mutual respect of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful settlement of international disputes, non-use of force or threat of force.

The ministers noted that early restoration of peace and stability in Afghanistan is an important factor in maintaining and strengthening security in the region. They support settlement of inter-Afghan conflict via promoting inclusive process of national reconciliation and believe that these efforts should be undertaken under the leadership of the Afghans and Afghans themselves. The UN should play a central coordinating role in international cooperation on Afghanistan.

The significance of cooperation in disarmament and arms control, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and peaceful use of nuclear energy was underlined. From this point of view, entry into force of the protocol on security guarantees to the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (CANWFZ) treaty, which will contribute to strengthening of global non-proliferation regime.

The ministers endorsed a draft Tashkent declaration on the fifteenth anniversary of the SCO and draft information communique following the meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State, as well as a Report of the SCO Secretariat for the past year, presented by the SCO Secretary General Rashid Alimov.

The heads of delegations also adopted decisions on a number of issues, related to the activities of the organization and forthcoming meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO member-states in Tashkent.

The ministers highly appraised the works, carried out under Uzbekistan’s SCO presidency, on preparing the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO member-states in Tashkent.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the
Republic of Uzbekistan announces the accreditation of the media representatives
for coverage of the Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of
the Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization which will take
place on May 2016 in Tashkent.

Media representatives wishing to participate
in the coverage of the Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of
the SCO Member States should send to the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan the
following documents:

1. a letter of application from
the head of the interested mass media addressed to the Minister of Foreign
Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan concerning on the accreditation of correspondent.
The letter should be transferred through the diplomatic or consular missions of
the Republic of Uzbekistan abroad or the foreign diplomatic missions accredited
by the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan;

2. basic information about
interested mass media;

3. biographic data (CV) of the
journalist and passport copy;

4. a photograph of the accrediting
journalist in 700х700
dpi size (high quality, full face, white or blue background, please send the
electronic version to the e-mailsco2016@tiv.uz);

5. a completed accreditation form (please send the
electronic version to the e-mail
sco2016@tiv.uz).

Applications from the media
representatives on accreditation will be accepted until 18:00 Tashkent time (GMT+5),
May 5, 2016.

Applications received after the deadline
as well as with the missing documents or attached photograph and accreditation
form of the journalist will not be accepted for consideration.

If the foreign media representatives submit
the application on coverage Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign
Affairs of the SCO Member States but have not received the confirmation on
their accreditation from the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan, it does not
justify the arrival to Uzbekistan and their further professional activity.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan announces
the accreditation of the media representatives for coverage of the Meeting of
the Council of the Heads of the Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization which will take place on June 2016 in Tashkent.

Media representatives wishing to
participate in the coverage of the Meeting of the Council of the Heads of the
SCO Member States should send to the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan the
following documents:

1. a letter of application from the
head of the interested mass media addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
of the Republic of Uzbekistan concerning on the accreditation of correspondent.
The letter should be transferred through the diplomatic or consular missions of
the Republic of Uzbekistan abroad or the foreign diplomatic missions accredited
by the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan;

2. basic information about
interested mass media;

3. biographic data (CV) of the
journalist and passport copy;

4. a photograph of the accrediting
journalist in 700х700 dpi size (high quality, full face, white or blue
background, please send the electronic version to the e-mail sco2016@tiv.uz);

5. a completed accreditation form
(please send the electronic version to the e-mail sco2016@tiv.uz).

Applications from the media
representatives on accreditation will be accepted until 18:00 Tashkent time
(GMT+5), June 6, 2016.

Applications received after the
deadline as well as with the missing documents or attached photograph and
accreditation form of the journalist will not be accepted for consideration.

If the foreign media representatives
submit the application on coverage Meeting of the Council of the Heads of the
SCO Member States but have not received the confirmation on their accreditation
from the MFA of the Republic of Uzbekistan, it does not justify the arrival to
Uzbekistan and their further professional activity.

As one of the founding countries of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organization Uzbekistan along with other Member States defines the development
strategy of the SCO. Since its establishment in 2001 due to efforts made by our
country in this direction significant progress has been achieved in improving
the activities of the organization, particularly, the establishment and
strengthening of fruitful cooperation between its members, as well as with
other global and regional institutions.

Uzbekistan, as known, supports
strict compliance with the goals, objectives and principles established in the
Charter of the SCO which aimed at ensuring the safety and stability, improving
the socio-economic well-being of the region, increasing the performance and
international prestige of the organization. Particular attention is attached to
strengthening the openness of the structure that excludes confrontational or
bloc orientation.

During the first presidency of
Uzbekistan in the SCO (in 2003-2004, the second time the country led the
association in 2009-2010) important documents in terms of the institutional
establishment of the organization have been signed: Regulations on the status
of observer at the SCO and Order of SCO interaction with observers. As a
result, in 2004, Mongolia gained observer status, and in 2005 India, Pakistan
and Iran. In addition, a significant event was the signing of the Agreement on
cooperation in fight against illegal trafficking of narcotic drugs and
psychotropic substances and their precursors, which created a legal framework
for multilateral cooperation to counter the threat of drugs.

Furthermore, since January 2004 the
Executive Committee of the Regional Antiterrorist Structure (RATS) of the SCO
started functioning in Tashkent. This permanent body has become an effective
tool and platform for combining efforts and practical cooperation between law
enforcement bodies and special services of the SCO member states in the fight
against radical, violent extremism and separatism, organized crime.

In this connection we recall that on
8 April of the current year our capital hosted the 28th Meeting of RATS Council
during which the results for the implementation of the Cooperation Program of
SCO member states and other acts were discussed in the fight against terrorism,
separatism and extremism for 2013-2015.

In 2004, the Institute of Meetings
of Security Councils Secretaries was created on the initiative of the
Uzbekistan, which is a coordinating and consultative mechanism for security
cooperation in the SCO framework. The first meeting in this format was held in
Tashkent in June of the same year. Since then, they are conducted yearly and
play an important role in the study, analysis and evaluation of the security
situation, the coordination of efforts of the SCO countries to stand together
against the challenges and threats. The negotiations within the framework of
such meetings contribute to the development of common approaches in timely
response to traditional and new threats, and thereby increase the practical
effectiveness of the organization's activities in the field of ensuring peace
and sustainable progress.

On April 13-14, 2016 in Tashkent
under the chairmanship of the Uzbek side it was held the eleventh meeting of
Secretaries of Security Councils of the SCO member states. During the meeting
the sides exchanged views on the situation in the sphere of security and
stability in the area of organization, discussed the issues of further
advancement of cooperation and improving mechanisms of interaction in combating
terrorism, separatism and extremism, illicit trafficking of weapons and drugs,
other modern challenges and threats.

In 2010 (during the second
presidency of Uzbekistan in the SCO) it was also signed substantial package of
documents aimed at further development of cooperation, expanding external
contacts of the organization, an effective solution to problems of peace,
tranquility and steady progress in the vast region.

Thus, thanks to the active
diplomatic work undertaken by our country in the second period of its
presidency, in April 2010 during the visit of United Nations Secretary-General
Ban Ki-moon, a Joint Declaration on Cooperation between the Secretariats of the
UN and the SCO has been signed in Tashkent. This document marked the beginning of
official cooperation between the two associations.

The Declaration is essential for
strengthening the legal framework, enhancing the SCO’s international prestige
and development of its contacts with UN agencies. As President of Uzbekistan
Islam Karimov stated during Tashkent summit in June 2010, the document’s
adoption “will enable more active use of the UN tribune to address the SCO
facing problems and the joint promotion of its member states’ interests within
the organization”.

The approval of the Regulations on
procedure for admitting new members to the SCO was a significant event and
Uzbekistan’s active work on achievement of consensus and consolidated
approaches by all member states contributed to its adoption. The document,
representing a significant step in creating the legal framework for the SCO’s
further expansion, established the basic criteria to be met by the state, which
is aimed at to obtain full membership of the organization. Thus, the open
nature of the organization, which is becoming more attractive to many
countries, has been once again confirmed.

The adoption of the SCO Rules of
procedure in 2010, which was developed at the initiative and with the active
participation of Uzbekistan, served to further development of the organization
and improving the legal framework of its activities. No uniform rules of
governing the initiation, development, approval and adoption of regulatory
legal acts were within the organization before the document’s adoption. One of
its main achievements was the consolidation of the SCO basic principle in it -
decision-making within an organization only by consensus.

It is also pertinent to note that
the mechanism of meetings of heads of science and technology ministries and
departments of the SCO member states was launched during the second presidency
of our country. In addition, the governments of the SCO member states signed
the agreements on cooperation in agriculture and combating crime.

The Republic of Uzbekistan has once
again assumed the responsible mission presidency of the SCO in 2015-2016, which
coincided with the 15th anniversary of the organization’s establishment.

Such tasks as the development of
measures to strengthen the joint struggle with the challenges of security,
development of cooperation in the area, ensuring orderly progress of the member
states, further expansion of the organization’s international relations remain
the focus of attention during this period.

Due to our country’s active efforts,
concrete results in key areas of the SCO activity are achieved over the past
year. Thus, Memorandum on granting the Kingdom of Cambodia the status of
dialogue partner was signed in September 2015. Similar documents were signed
with Armenia, Azerbaijan and Nepal this year. Negotiations on the jointing the
Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan - the largest countries
in South Asia in the SCO are continuing.

A meeting of the Council of Foreign
Ministers will be held in late May. The meeting of culture ministries, as well
as the meeting of the Council and the Interbank Association of the SCO Business
Council is scheduled in June. The main event will be the Heads of State
Council’s meeting. The summit will adopt a number of important documents which
will determine the main directions of the organization’s development in the
medium and long term.

Taking into account the practice of
previous years, we can say with confidence that the outcome of the current,
third presidency of Uzbekistan in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will
serve to further capacity building of the structure in addressing identified
problems, strengthening of the legal framework for the organization’s activity
and increasing its prestige on the world stage.

An awards ceremony of the winners of
the XI National Oltin qalam (Golden pen) prize took place at the Turkiston
Palace on 3 May.

Members of the Parliament, representatives of ministries and agencies,
public organizations, employees of information centers and mass media,
representatives of diplomatic corps and international organizations, accredited
in our country, participated at the event.

Deputy chairman of the Creative Union of journalists, chairman of the
organizing committee of the international contest for XI National Oltin Qalam
prize U.Mirzayorov and others noted that under the leadership of President
Islam Karimov mass media has been steadily developing in our country,
journalists are provided comprehensive support, which encourages them to
achieve new creative progress.

In accordance with the Concept of further deepening democratic reforms
and forming a civil society in our country the national legislation, concerning
the mass media, has been improved. The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On
openness of the activity of the state authorities” serves to fully ensure the
rights of citizens in the sphere of information, strengthening responsibility
of state authorities for increasing the quality of decisions, widely informing
the public about their activities.

International contest for the National Oltin qalam prize, established at
the initiative of President of our country plays an important role in further
development of the sphere. This contest, dedicated to the World press freedom
day, is organized by the Creative union of journalists of Uzbekistan, the
Journalists training center in cooperation with the Public fund for supporting
and development of independent mass media and news agencies of Uzbekistan, the
National association of electronic mass media, the National TV and radio
company, the Ministry of culture and sports, Uzreport news agency and the
Council of federations of trade unions of Uzbekistan.

The contest in conducted in the areas of TV, radio, print media and
internet-journalism. One main national prize, three prizes in each sphere, as
well as promotional nominations “Best press service”, “For the best photo
report”.

Over the past years approximately 5 thousand journalists with over 70
thousand creative materials took part in the Oltin Qalam contest.

At the international contest for the XI National Oltin qalam prize the
winners of the main prize, in the spheres of TV, radio, print media and
internet journalism, as well as the promotional prizes “Best press service”,
“For the best photo report”.

Within the contest, the Women’s committee of Uzbekistan, the Council of
federation of trade unions, Public Fund for supporting and development of
independent print media and news agencies of Uzbekistan have established their
promotional prizes. Also the UN Information Centre in Uzbekistan,
representative offices of UNESCO, USAID, Regional dialogue organization
(Slovenia), and international association of people’s universities of Germany
have established their prizes.

The main prize of the international contest for the XI National Oltin
qalam prize has been presented to the staff of Toshkent teleradiokanali. The
winner has been awarded a special diploma, Oltin qalam statute and money award
of 200 minimal wages.